'It hurts incredibly': Frustrated Johann van Graan bemoans small margins in defeat to Leinster

On Saturday night, Munster arrived at Thomond Park strongly fancied to claim a first win over their rivals since December 2018

Rhys Ruddock of Leinster is tackled by Gavin Coombes of Munster during the Guinness PRO14 clash at Thomond Park. Picture: Ramsey Cardy/Sportsfile

For Munster, another case of close but no cigar after a 13-10 defeat against Leinster but while Johann van Graan insists he could be lighting up the Havanas sooner rather than later, the Thomond Park air should already have been thick with tobacco smoke drifting out from the home dressing room.

As far as Leo Cullen and his visiting Guinness PRO14 champions are concerned, their neighbours in red continue to be the gift that keeps on giving.